Chilika Shelduck Folk Carnival Begins Today

Bhubaneswar: Chilika has always been a major attraction for people of Odisha and those staying outside the state. What makes December exciting is ‘shelduck carnival’, beginning Friday.

The shelduck folk carnival, bringing myriad folk dance and art forms together, is being organized by OdiArt Centre and ATG Media Limited, on the banks of Chilika.

OdiArt Centre Secretary (finance) and ATG Executive Director Karan Khanna said the carnival aims at bringing different fun activities together at Chilika to attract more visitors.

“Chilika is a beautiful place and people need to explore it more. I am from Mumbai and had come here last time during the inauguration of the museum and I realized this place needs attention. Last time, it was a four-day event but this time it starts on December 21 and ends on December 31,” he said.

There will be several outdoor adventure sports, including boat race and mud volleyball, till December 26 and cultural and historical traditional performances of Odisha from  December 27.

“We have planned water sports, scuba diving and many sports and activities all through the day with camping facilities. There will be bonfire as well,” he said.

You can also give your tongue a taste of authentic Odia cuisine at the food festival there.

“The main event begins on December 27. In the evening, there will be musical performances. On December 31, there will be a Bollywood-themed dance party, where the music will begin from Golden era and end with EDM,” Karan further said.

While sports activities are open for everyone, the event from December 27 will require passes. The carnival is being organized on 8 acre land beside OdiArt Pruvasa Museum. Coming year, a three-month gala carnival is being planned. “We will invite schools from all across the country to participate. There will be more interesting events to look out for,” he added.